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About Laser Spine Institute

What is Laser Spine Institute?

Laser Spine Institute is a leader in endoscopic spine surgery, offering you a safe and effective alternative to open neck or back surgery. We are a state-of-the-art, outpatient surgery center that specializes in minimally invasive spine procedures. In much the same way that arthroscopic surgery is performed on the knees and shoulders, we perform surgery on the back and neck. The steps in this procedure allow the surgeon to correct spinal and nerve conditions without the complications caused by open back surgery or fusions. That means that large incisions and lengthy hospital stays are no longer required. Every day, patients come in to Laser Spine Institute for surgery and walk out that same day.

What conditions does Laser Spine Institute treat?

At Laser Spine Institute, a wide variety of laser-assisted techniques are available for the treatment of spine conditions that include:

What types of endoscopic surgeries do you perform?

At Laser Spine Institute, we specialize in four types of endoscopic surgeries:

How is endoscopic surgery performed?

The most unique aspect of Laser Spine Institute's surgical procedures is that they are endoscopic, which means minimally invasive. In the operating room, a small, four-millimeter incision is made and a hollow tube the circumference of a drinking straw is inserted into the incision. A series of tubes, increasing in size, are placed over the first tube, one at a time, to slowly create an opening to the spine that does not require tearing or cutting of the muscle. The last tube, or "working tube," is 18-millimeters in diameter and once it is in place, the other tubes are removed. Now a fiber-optic camera with a 50X magnification view and any other instruments needed are guided down this tube to give the surgeon an up-close look at the affected area. Throughout the procedure, the anesthesiologist is sitting with the patient, monitoring his/her vital signs and administering medication and intravenous fluids as needed. A surgical technician stands by the surgeon to hand him the instruments he needs, and a circulating nurse is present to coordinate everyone on the operating room team, communicate with the patient, and keep the room temperature comfortable.

How long does surgery typically last?

The average spine procedure lasts about 60 minutes. When the surgeon is sure that the nerve is free and everything is completed, he removes the tube to let the tissue and muscle go back to their natural position. The last tube is gently removed and a stitch or two is put into the tiny surgical site. The patient is wheeled into the post-anesthesia care area where their vital signs are monitored, medications are given as needed and some light refreshments can be enjoyed. That same day, patients are encouraged to walk around. Soon after, they are discharged home or to their hotel.

What's the recovery process like?

After a day of rest and recovery, the patient returns for a postoperative appointment. An epidural injection may be given to reduce swelling and increase range of motion. Physical therapy may be recommended. Physical therapy consists of a series of stretching exercises, walking, ice or heat, gentle electronic stimulation and a nice relaxing massage. Each patient is given instructions so therapy can be continued at home. Over the weeks and months to come, gradual and continuous improvement will be seen, as the nerves and tissues heal. With time and exercise, the body can repair any damage, gain strength, and a gradual increase in daily activities can occur.